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Tetanus Vaccination
Reviewed by Robyn Van Winssen (RPh, APA, BSP, CTH)
Tetanus, also known as lockjaw, is a severe disease of the nervous system caused by a toxin-producing bacterium. It leads to muscle contractions, particularly in the jaw and neck muscles.
There is no cure for tetanus.
The widespread use of vaccines has made cases rare in Canada and other developed countries. However, it remains a threat to those who are not up to date on their vaccinations and is more common in developing countries. To ensure your protection, book an appointment at Mint Health + Drugs for the tetanus vaccine. Don’t take chances with your health—get vaccinated and stay safe.
Every Canadian should receive a tetanus booster every 10 years as part of their routine immunization program. This simplifies what needs to be done after wounds and bites that have potential tetanus exposure. Also the tetanus vaccine includes diphtheria and pertussis protection. Pertussis is more commonly known as whooping cough which can be very dangerous, especially for babies.
Tetanus Symptoms
The time from being infected to the onset of symptoms (incubation period) for tetanus is typically 10 days, but it can range from 3 to 21 days. The most common type of tetanus is generalized tetanus, which usually begins with symptoms in the jaw and then progresses downward over two weeks.
Symptoms of tetanus include:
- Painful muscle spasms
- Muscle rigidity in the jaw
- Tension around the lips
- Difficulty swallowing
- Rigid abdominal muscles
- Seizures (jerking or staring)
- Headache
- Fever and sweating
- Changes in blood pressure and heart rate
Get Protected
It is important to consult with a healthcare provider or a travel health specialist to assess the specific vaccination recommendations based on the travel itinerary and individual health considerations.
To ensure your protection against tetanus, schedule an appointment for the tetanus vaccine at Mint Health + Drugs. Tetanus is a serious disease, and getting vaccinated is the best way to prevent it. Our pharmacists can offer valuable information on required and recommended vaccinations, as well as essential tips for maintaining good health while traveling. Get in touch or book an appointment with our Travel Consultation Pharmacists.
Tetanus FAQs
If you don’t get a tetanus shot within 48 hours of a potential tetanus-causing injury, you may be at risk of developing tetanus. Tetanus is a serious and potentially life-threatening disease. Without prompt medical attention and vaccination, the infection can lead to long-term complications such as airway obstruction, heart failure, muscle damage, and even death.
It’s important to seek medical attention immediately if you haven’t had a tetanus shot within the last five years and experience any of these symptoms. Tetanus is a preventable disease, and timely vaccination is crucial to reduce the risk of severe complications.
With proper treatment, most people can recover from tetanus. However, the recovery process can take several months. Severe muscle spasms may last for about three to four weeks and then slowly improve. Once the spasms subside, full recovery may take several months. It’s important to seek immediate medical care if you suspect a tetanus infection, as proper treatment can help manage symptoms and prevent complications.
While the body’s natural immune response can help fight many infections, in the case of tetanus, vaccination is the most reliable method to prevent the disease. Therefore, seeking medical advice for appropriate immunization and wound care is crucial to protect against tetanus.
If you have an upcoming appointment, please fill out the Pre-Appointment form at least 48 hours before the appointment.
Edmonton and Surrounding Regions
Mint Health + Drugs Allendale
#100, 6720 104 Street NW Edmonton, AB
Mint Health + Drugs Meridian
Suite 2, 4402 37 Street, Stony Plain, AB
Mint Health + Drugs Sherwood
#109, 65 Chippewa Road, Sherwood Park, AB
Calgary and Surrounding Regions
Mint Health + Drugs Blue Bottle
148 17 Ave NE, Calgary, AB T2E 1L6
Mint Health + Drugs Langdon
#107, 355 Centre Street, Langdon, AB
Mint Health + Drugs Crystal Ridge
Unit 5, 55 Wheatland Trail, Strathmore, AB
Travel Clinic Locations
If you have an upcoming appointment, please fill out the Pre-Appointment form at least 48 hours before the appointment.
FEATURED ARTICLE
What You Should Know Before You Travel
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Traveling can be one of the most fulfilling things in life, but many people don’t recognize the dangers of it. Whether you’re traveling for leisure or traveling for business, travelling to almost any part of the world carries its own health risks. That’s why it’s so important to seek professional advice from a healthcare professional. […]
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